Electricity Workers Union Threatens Strike Over Proposed Tariff Hike: Potential Nationwide Power Outages

Electricity Workers Union Threatens Strike Over Proposed Tariff Hike: Potential Nationwide Power Outages....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

As tensions escalate over the recently approved electricity tariff hike, the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) has issued a stern warning, signaling a potential nationwide blackout if the Nigerian Government does not reconsider its decision.

In a statement attributed to its acting General Secretary, Dominic Igwebike, the NUEE conveyed its ultimatum to the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, emphasizing that if swift action isn’t taken to address the tariff withdrawal, its members will proceed with decisive measures.

The tariff adjustment, initiated by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission on April 3, primarily affects Band A customers who receive 20 hours of daily power supply. This revision sees an increase from N68/kWh to N225/kWh for these consumers.

However, aligning with other labor unions such as the Nigerian Labour Congress and Trade Unions Congress, NUEE vehemently opposes the tariff hike, citing concerns over its feasibility and its adverse impact on the populace.

According to the union, the tariff increase is incongruent with Nigeria’s current socioeconomic landscape, where a significant portion of the population grapples with basic needs. Moreover, with an electricity access rate of approximately 55%, the hike is viewed as detrimental to the nation’s economic diversification, growth, and overall well-being.

Dominic Igwebike reiterated the union’s stance, emphasizing the impracticality of providing 20 hours of electricity supply and calling for the immediate withdrawal of the tariff adjustment. He highlighted the perilous implications of demanding exorbitant fees for a service that the infrastructure cannot consistently deliver.

Responding to the escalating tensions, the Minister of Power, represented by his media aide, Bolaji Tunji, urged dialogue and understanding. He stressed that the government’s actions aim to address longstanding challenges in the power sector, ultimately benefiting the nation’s economy and fostering job creation.

Despite assurances from the government, reports indicate a decline in power supply nationwide since the tariff hike, with consumers lamenting the persistent lack of adequate electricity across the country.

As the standoff intensifies between electricity workers and the government, the looming threat of a nationwide strike underscores the urgency for a resolution to avert a potential power crisis that could have far-reaching consequences.

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